Rayon – Running
Rayon is the brainchild of long-time North Portland resident and Detroit-area native Eric Sabatino, which has since developed into a full-band endeavour comprising members of Sun Atoms, Yuvees, Pastilla, and Martha Stax—namely Anna Sabatino, Riley McLaughlin, Eric Rubalcava, and Derek Longoria-Gomez. Sabatino departs from norms with this release, mixing the album with renowned recording engineer Larry Crane (Cat Power, Sleater-Kinney, The Decemberists, The Go-Betweens, Elliott Smith, Death Cab for Cutie) at Jackpot! Recording, and mastering by Timothy Stollenwerk (Yo La Tengo, Grouper, Morphine) at Stereophonic Mastering. “Running” begins with melodic guitar lines filled with shoegaze sounds and post-punk aesthetics, creating a dark, deep atmosphere. As the vocals arrive, they take on a mysterious, almost whispering tone, integrating naturally into the orchestral atmosphere rather than standing out against it. The influences of Gang of Four and The Cure are clear, but they act more as a basis than a blueprint, allowing the band to make out a sound that is completely their own. Around halfway through of the song, the tension rises as stronger post-punk guitar rhythms appear, modifying the song’s emotional core. “Running” gradually returns to its original melodic core, moving into a semi-groovy, atmospheric style. The guitars return to their expansive appearance while the drums create a consistent, minimal beat that contributes to the track’s sense of movement and spirituality. Lyrically, “Running” explores themes of routine, escape, and psychological solitude. Lines like “He wants to go running / He wants to go home / He wants to go laughing / He wants to be alone” emphasize the song’s main contradiction: the desire to progress while still wanting to escape. The outcome is a composition that is softly active but exciting, that captures a moment of fragility preserved in controlled musical tension. “Running” is a powerful statement about Rayon’s evolving identity, combining post-punk enthusiasm, shoegaze haze, and sophisticated tenderness. The music is dynamic, with classic elements but delivered in a modern, carefully made production. It’s a song that rewards attentive listening by providing atmosphere, tension, and sensitivity in all their forms.
https://missrayon.bandcamp.com
